Glasgow Warriors: Finn Russell eyes longer stay

Finn Russell met Glasgow Warriors fans

Finn Russell hopes that he and coach Gregor Townsend can continue the Pro12-winning partnership beyond next summer that brought thousands of fans on to the streets of Glasgow in celebration.

The 22-year-old fly-half was speaking after Glasgow Warriors' squad paraded the trophy in an open-top bus.

"I've got another year of my contract and hopefully I'll manage to get something else after that," he said.

"Gregor and the coaching staff are brilliant. I am loving the club."

Russell began his professional career with Glasgow and thanks the influence of former Scotland fly-half Townsend for helping him amass nine international caps of his own.

"He has been a brilliant head coach the last couple of years and, with me being a young 10, it's been great to have him around," he told BBC Scotland.

"Glasgow are going in the right direction and it's a brilliant club to be in.

"The boys are just like one big family and you can see on the pitch how much effort they put in for each other."

Glasgow Warriors players toured the city with Pro12 trophy on their open-top bus

Glasgow finished top of the Pro12 table ahead of Munster and then defeated the Irish side in the Belfast final on 30 May to take the title for the first time.

However, there is little rest for the Warriors squad ahead of a new season that includes the Rugby World Cup.

"You don't have too long to savour it," said Russell.

"It is a quick turnaround and we are back in for the start of pre-season on Monday."

Russell was trying to relish the moment as fans lined the streets of the city.

"I didn't expect anything like it," he said. "It is amazing, especially as it's during the week.

"It's amazing to have all the fans come down, especially coming down Dumbarton Road,

"These are the moments that will be highlights of your career and you've got to make the most of it.

"Expectations are going to be high after winning it."

Gregor Townsend is said to be attracting interest from other employers

Captain Al Kellock is retiring from playing following the end of the season

Glasgow Warriors fans gathered in George Square to greet the Pro12 champions